Generally, as of December 2025, Victorian property sellers aren’t legally *required* to maintain gardens, but presentation significantly impacts buyer perception and ultimately, sale price. It’s a matter of optimising your property’s appeal during the selling process.
Currently in Melbourne, particularly in the Eastern Suburbs where Fletchers operates, gardens are a key consideration for buyers. In 2026, we’re seeing buyers favour properties that present well, and a well-maintained garden contributes heavily to that first impression. While there’s no legal obligation, neglecting the garden can negatively influence the perceived value. A basic tidy – mowing, weeding, pruning – is almost always recommended. Many sellers choose to engage professional gardening services, with costs typically ranging from $200-$500 for a basic pre-sale tidy. During the campaign (typically 4-6 weeks), ongoing maintenance might be needed, especially if there are scheduled private inspections or open homes. Fletchers’ agents routinely discuss garden presentation as part of the marketing strategy, recognising its impact on attracting buyers seeking family-friendly homes near schools and parks, a common profile in areas like Balwyn and Doncaster. We’ve observed that properties with appealing gardens often attract higher engagement online and at inspections.
Presenting a well-maintained garden is a practical step in maximising your property’s appeal to potential buyers in the current Melbourne market.